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Vancouver is often called the gateway to Alaska for cruise passengers. This bustling, metropolis is a common starting point and ending point for cruises along the west coast of North America and into Alaska, and the only port to offer both one-way and round-trip itineraries through the Inside Passage. Whether you’re traveling round-trip from Vancouver, or beginning your cruise in Alaska and arriving in Vancouver, transportation from the cruise terminals to the Vancouver International Airport couldn't be easier, with multiple convenient and affordable options available.

Vancouver’s Cruise Terminals

Vancouver’s two cruise terminals, Canada Place and Ballantyne, are both about a 30-minute drive from the Vancouver International Airport. Almost all cruises depart and arrive from the Canada Place terminal in the city center. Although the Ballantyne terminal is close to the Canada Place terminal, it is east of the city center and less accessible by public transportation. It is recommended by Cruise Critic that travelers from Ballantyne take a taxi to the airport or to the Waterfront Station to connect to public transportation rather than walking.

Public Transit

From Canada Place, Vancouver’s public transportation system is the most affordable transportation to the airport. From the terminal, walk south to Waterfront Station, about 400 yards. Take the Canada Line of the SkyTrain to YVR-Airport Station, westbound. The ride will take about 25 minutes and the airport will be the 12th stop from Waterfront Station. The SkyTrain runs about every six to 20 minutes, depending on the day and time, with less frequency late night, weekends and holidays. Travelers should note that before 5:30 a.m. on weekdays, 6 a.m. on Saturdays and 7:30 a.m. on Sundays and holidays, the Cordova Street entrance to the Waterfront Station will be closed and passengers must enter through the Granville entrance on Hastings Street. The first train from the Waterfront Station to the airport each day leaves at 4:48 a.m. and the last train leaves at 1:05 a.m. As of December 2013, service from Waterfront Station to the airport is $8.75 in Canadian currency, for adults, including the $5 airport surcharge.

Take a Taxi

Taking a taxi from either cruise terminal to the airport will take approximately 30 minutes. Taxis charge a metered rate based on the time and distance traveled. Approximate rates, in Canadian currency, from each terminal, during normal driving conditions, are provided by the Port Metro Vancouver. From Canada Place Terminal to YVR, fares can range between $30 and $35. The taxi fare from the Ballantyne Terminal to the airport is approximately $40.

Hop on the Shuttle

Regular shuttle service is provided by several private companies between the cruise terminals, hotels in downtown and the international airport. Many cruise operators will provide shuttles to and from the Vancouver International Airport, which can be arranged when booking your cruise, or upon arrival at the airport. Ground transportation desks, operated by West Coast Sightseeing, in both cruise terminals, can arrange shuttle service or sightseeing tours with prices beginning at $15.

Alternative Transportation Options

Travelers arriving at Vancouver’s cruise terminals may also rent a car, hire a limousine or use the public parking lots for personal transportation. Car rental kiosks are available at the Canada Place terminal only and reservations will need to be made in advance with the rental company. A limited number of limousines may be available on site for transfer to the airport from either terminal, although the Port Metro Vancouver website recommends making arrangements in advance for limousine service. For travelers with their own transportation, a short-term parking facility is available at each terminal for picking up and dropping off passengers. At Canada Place, Vinci Park operates a facility with short-term and long-term parking spaces.

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About the Author

Kiraney Cummins is a travel and outdoor recreation writer in Portland, Ore. She writes for Pacific Northwest businesses and travel agencies. Kiraney earned a Master of Arts in English composition and has been published in a variety of online publications.